Hundreds dressed in vibrant traditional attire gathered at Sovima Village Council Ground on Wednesday for the grand finale of the Sekrenyi-cum-Mini Hornbill Festival, organized by the Angami Public Organization and sponsored by the state’s Tourism Department.
Gracing the occasion as a special guest, Nagaland Tourism Minister Temjen Imna Along called for stronger unity among Naga tribes while emphasizing the need to preserve indigenous customs alongside Christian values. He praised the Angami community for sustaining its rich cultural heritage and urged other tribes—including the Aos, Sumis, Lothas, Chakhesangs, Zeliangs, and Konyaks—to safeguard their traditions as a foundation for collective progress.
Highlighting the importance of harmony between faith and culture, Along said Christianity remains central to Naga identity, but indigenous heritage must continue to be protected and celebrated. He credited Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for promoting the Hornbill and Mini Hornbill festivals, noting that such initiatives have revitalized traditional practices and strengthened cultural pride across Nagaland.
The minister also urged community, church, and youth leaders to engage in constructive dialogue to maintain peace and ensure the state’s progress. Raising concerns over illegal immigration, he stressed adherence to lawful mechanisms such as the Inner Line Permit system while encouraging cooperation between indigenous communities and legitimate non-Naga residents.
Earlier, APO president Thejao Vihienuo spoke about the spiritual essence of Sekrenyi as a festival of purification and renewal. Though ancestral rituals have evolved with the community’s embrace of Christianity, he noted that the festival’s core message of sanctification remains relevant.
The program featured invocation prayers, greetings from tribal organizations, and cultural performances, including indigenous games and a special song by BKK of Kuda village. Stalls showcasing organic produce, handicrafts, and jewelry added vibrancy to the event, reflecting the community’s cultural and economic vitality.
The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks and benediction, reinforcing a shared message of unity, faith, and cultural preservation.
Cultural Pride and Unity Highlighted at Angami Sekrenyi Event
